Teratoma
Disease Information
In-Depth
What causes teratomas? 
The cause of most teratomas is not completely understood. Teratomas are often associated with a number of inherited defects that affect the central nervous system, genitourinary tract and lower spine.
What are the symptoms of a teratoma?
Each child may experience symptoms differently and symptoms vary widely depending on the size and location of the tumor.
Your child's symptoms may include:
- a tumor, swelling, or mass that can be felt or seen
- elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- elevated levels of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (B-HCG)
- constipation, incontinence and leg weakness - if the tumor is in the sacrum (a segment of the vertebral column that forms the top part of the pelvis)
